Honda CR-V
What’s for sale near me?
Above Average: Resale value, reliability, cabin size, fuel economy, safety
Below Average: Lackluster infotainment, towing, off-road ability
Consensus: A very capable compact SUV that delivers in almost every area customers need at price they can afford.
Nissan Rogue
What’s for sale near me?
Above Average: Sporty character, third-row seat, premium interior and features, fuel economy, safety
Below Average: Horsepower, noisy at full throttle,
Consensus: A reliable and efficient small SUV with a unique feature set and a sporty look.
There’s no disputing the quality and reputation behind both the Nissan Rogue and Honda CR-V, although the latter still holds the upper hand when it comes to resale values. Comparing the CR-V to the Rogue yields varying results depending on the model year. For the most part, the Rogue’s interior volume mimics that of the CR-V, with the Nissan offering up more front seat legroom and the Honda more in the rear. Both feature flat-folding rear seats, a wide hatch opening and a low liftover height. Some Rogues produced after 2014 offer a third-row seat, although no adult will ever fit back there. Both SUVs offer 4-cylinder engines with power ranging between 170 and 185 hp, meaning neither is very fast, but both are extremely fuel efficient. Rogue also had a hybrid model that bowed in January 2017 for a limited run and then came back to the market as a late 2018 entry. Depending on the model year, you’ll find various safety features like blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning and autonomous braking, but only the Rogue offers additional features such as a 360-degree Around View monitor. Both the CR-V and Rogue do very well in IIHS crash testing, with models built after 2015 earning a Top Safety Pick status. However, only the CR-V has earned a spot on KBB’s Best Family Cars list five years running.
Honda CR-V Advantages
Strong resale, generous back seat legroom, more horsepower
Nissan Rogue Advantages
Cool options like a panoramic moonroof, 360-degree monitor, Bose audio, a tent package and an available third-row seat. The Rogue’s interior feels a bit more polished, especially on top of the line versions.
Similarities
The Rogue and CR-V both offer good build quality, ride comfort and fuel economy. The both carry the same factory and CPO warranty coverage, can be had with all-wheel drive and offer various trims and options from basic to plush.
Final Recommendation
When it comes to choosing between the CR-V and the Rogue, we’d call it a draw. The CR-V is better known, gets a mile or two per gallon better fuel economy and holds its value better. But, the Rogue offers so much more in the way of features and styling, it really just comes down to what you need most in a compact crossover.
OK, so what’s next?
I’m ready for one of these cars, and I’d like to trade in my current car while I’m at it.
